Punta Cana, Dominican Republic may be known for its world-class beaches and the posh resorts that pepper its pristine shoreline, but the area is quickly becoming favored for a different kind of sand and sea: the challenging bunkers and water hazards that line Cap Cana's championship Punta Espada golf course – the first of three planned courses at the resort.
Opened in 2006 and ranked by Forbes as one of the "10 Best Golf Courses in the Caribbean," the 7,396-yard, par-72 course is long by any island standards, and within four months of inauguration, Golf Digest determined Punta Espada to be among its "100 Best Golf Courses Outside of the United States." As host to the PGA Champions Tour's Cap Cana Championship in spring, Punta Espada is poised to test casual and competitive golfers alike. The legendary player and prolific course designer, Jack Nicklaus, worked with his design team to create the 18 unforgettable holes – eight of which fringe 
the azure Caribbean sea – constituting the first championship-sized Signature Course in the Caribbean.
In 2008, Cap Cana resort was chosen as the 10th of an eventual 25 destinations worldwide to comprise the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club. The unique club will offer Associate Members exclusive access to the designer's "best" courses around the world – elevating Punta Espada among the crème de la crème.
One of the most spectacular holes, the course's signature par-3 13th, plays 250 yards directly over the water, forcing players to either go the distance or lay up on the narrow chipping area that hugs the right side. Easily the most photographed location on the course, players should take care to choose the right club here.
Nestled along the back nine sits the charming Punta Espada Golf Club, offering concierge services to assist with travel arrangements and tee times. There's also the Hole 19 bar, a waterfront oasis for weary players to grab a drink and recover after facing down their formidable green opponent. The second of the three Nicklaus courses at Cap Cana, Las Iguanas, is slated to open by the end of 2008, and soon after, Punta Espada will become a members-only course. Golf enthusiasts should hurry to the resort to play this Caribbean gem while it's still open to all.
From $220 US for non-members May to October, including greens and cart fees ($320 from November to May); Club rentals from $50 US.
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